# Carbon Nanotubes–Gr Inspired by Geckos’ Setae Structure with Enhanced Tribological Properties

## TL;DR

Scientists created a new material inspired by gecko toes that reduces friction and wear, making it useful for better lubricants.

## Contribution

A novel carbon nanotube–graphite composite inspired by gecko setae with significantly improved tribological performance.

## Key findings

- CNTs-Gr reduced friction coefficient by 44% and wear rate by 46% compared to graphite.
- The material maintained low friction even under increased load up to 35 N.
- The setae-like structure improved lubricating film coverage and pressure resistance.

## Abstract

The setae structure of geckos’ toes can create a strong adhesion force, allowing geckos to climb almost vertical walls. Inspired by this, carbon nanotubes–graphite (CNTs-Gr) was prepared by microwave technology, where CNTs like the setae structure grew in situ on the surface of Gr flakes. Compared to the Gr, the coefficient of friction (COF) and wear rate of CNTs-Gr decreased by 44% and 46%, reaching 0.10 and 1.18 × 10−5 mm3·N−1·m−1, respectively. Even if the load increased from 5 N to 35 N, the CNTs-Gr maintained a low and stable COF of 0.12. The excellent tribological properties were attributed to the unique setae structure of CNTs-Gr. This structure enabled the adhesion force of CNTs-Gr to the worn surface to increase threefold, improving the coverage of the lubricating film and significantly enhancing the lubricating film’s pressure resistance. The gecko setae structure proposed in this article provides researchers with a new idea for designing lubricants with excellent lubrication performance and high load-bearing capacity.